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Lake Eidsvatnet seen from the hill on a sunny day, Central Norway.

Things to do in  Central Norway

Storied Nordic splendor

Beyond the allure of Oslo and Bergen, Central Norway offers a more intimate, wilder Scandinavian experience. For travelers, the list of things to do is an impressive one: explore the spectacular coastal islands of Møre og Romsdal; hike Trollheimen's dramatic peaks or trek across the gorgeous Dovrefjell mountains; visit traditional fishing villages and sample local seafood; and, in winter, witness the northern lights or ski at world-class resorts. Anchored by trendy Trondheim (Norway’s third-largest city) this is a world of historic, Viking-inspired adventure.

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Local Currency
Norwegian Krone (NOK)
When to visit

Depending on where exactly you are in Central Norway, summer can bring more than 20 hours of daylight, plus mild temperatures ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Winter offers northern lights viewing and skiing, though temperatures can drop to 0ºF to 20ºF (-5°C to -15°C). The midnight sun is visible from late May to late July, while polar nights occur from early December to early January.

Getting around

If you want the flexibility to explore remote towns and wild natural areas, you’ll want a rental car. However, regional trains and buses connect major cities including Oslo and Bergen to Trondheim, Alesund, and even Bodo. Coastal express ferries link seaside towns most of the year, while in summer passenger ferries provide access to popular fjords and islands such as Hitra and Froya.

Traveler tips

1,000 years ago, Norwegians made pilgrimages on the St. Olav’s Ways, paying their respects to the eponymous saint. Multiple walking routes across the country led to Trondheim and the staggeringly impressive Nidaros Cathedral, the final stop. Today, it’s the world’s northernmost pilgrimage, a journey that spans 400 miles (640 kilometers). Hop on the trail in Trondheim to get a taste of the adventure.

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People Also Ask
Q:Can you see the northern lights in Trondheim in Central Norway?
A:

Yes, you can see the northern lights in Trondheim from September to March, with peak viewing from October to February. Your best chances are on clear nights between 8pm and 2am, away from city lights. Popular viewing spots include Estenstadmarka and the Bymarka hills. If you want better odds, go even further north.

Q:How much time do you spend in Trondheim in Central Norway?
A:

Two to three days is ideal to spend in Trondheim. This allows time to explore Nidaros Cathedral, Bakklandet Old Town, and Munkholmen Island, and experience the city’s food markets, restaurants, and museums. Add an extra day if you want to include nearby hiking trails or seasonal activities like kayaking.

Q:Is Hitra or Froya better in Central Norway?
A:

Whether Hitra or Froya is better depends on your preferences. Froya is best for kayaking and beach visits, with more dramatic Atlantic views. Hitra provides superior hiking and inland experiences. If you’re an angler, both islands excel at fishing. Froya has more tourism infrastructure, while Hitra feels more authentically local.

Q:Is Roros in Central Norway worth it?
A:

Yes, Roros is absolutely worth visiting. It’s not a UNESCO World Heritage Site for nothing—it features exceptionally preserved wooden architecture from its 17th-century mining era. The town offers authentic cultural experiences, traditional crafts, excellent local food, fascinating architecture, and beautiful winter landscapes. It's especially atmospheric during the Christmas season.

Q:What do you see on a musk ox safari in Central Norway?
A:

On musk ox safaris in Central Norway, you’ll typically go deep into the Dovrefjell Mountains. Your guide will take you to observe these prehistoric-looking animals in their natural habitat, typically from about 600 feet (200 meters) away using hefty binoculars. You might also spot reindeer, arctic foxes, and unique alpine flora.

Q:Can you see fjords from Trondheim in Central Norway?
A:

Trondheim doesn't have classic Norwegian fjords, but Trondheimsfjord is a wide sea inlet with similar, fjord-like views. Plus, the smattering of nearby islands makes the scenery incredibly fjord-esque. For those dramatic, classic fjord views, you'll need to travel to Geirangerfjord (5-6 hours away) or Hjorundfjord. Shorter trips to smaller fjords are possible within 2-3 hours.

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